A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the ureter, the tube carrying urine from the kidney to the bladder. It maintains an open pathway for urine flow, preventing or relieving blockages. Stents are used for kidney stones, ureteral narrowing (strictures), or to aid healing after urinary tract surgery. They allow urine to bypass obstructions, preventing urine backup and potential kidney damage.
Common Side Effects
Ureteral stents often cause expected sensations and symptoms. Pain and discomfort are common, often felt as a dull ache in the flank, groin, or bladder. This discomfort may intensify during urination or physical activity due to stent movement or tissue irritation.
Urinary symptoms include increased frequency and urgency, as the stent can irritate the bladder. Painful urination (dysuria), often described as a burning sensation, is also frequent.
Many individuals notice hematuria, or blood in their urine. The urine may appear pink, red, or brownish due to irritation of the urinary tract lining, especially after movement or physical activity. This symptom is often temporary and mild.
Bladder spasms, sudden involuntary contractions, contribute to urgency and discomfort. They can also cause a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying or urine leakage. These common side effects result from the stent’s interaction with the urinary system’s sensitive lining.
Less Common Side Effects
While most side effects are mild and anticipated, some less common, but potentially more significant, issues can arise with a ureteral stent. One such concern is stent migration, where the stent moves out of its intended position. This movement can lead to worsening pain, a new onset of severe discomfort, or changes in urinary function, and in rare cases, the stent may even fall out.
The presence of a stent can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney infections. Signs of an infection might include fever, chills, severe flank pain, foul-smelling urine, or cloudy urine. If left untreated, a kidney infection can lead to more severe complications.
Another less common issue is stent blockage, where the tube becomes obstructed by debris, mucus, or stone fragments. A blocked stent can cause urine to back up, leading to increased pain, fever, or a significant decrease in urine output, indicating a potential emergency. This situation requires prompt medical attention to restore proper drainage.
For stents left in place for extended periods, encrustation can occur. This involves the formation of mineral deposits on the stent’s surface, similar to scaling, which can make removal challenging and potentially lead to further complications like infection or kidney damage if not addressed. These less common side effects underscore the importance of monitoring and timely follow-up with a healthcare provider.
Managing Side Effects
Managing the side effects of a ureteral stent often involves a combination of self-care measures and, at times, medical interventions. Pain and discomfort can frequently be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications like alpha-blockers or antispasmodics to help relax the ureter and bladder muscles, reducing spasms and associated pain. Applying a heat pad to the affected area can also provide relief.
Maintaining adequate hydration is a simple yet effective strategy to reduce irritation and blood in the urine. Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush the urinary system and dilutes urine, which can lessen the burning sensation and reduce the concentration of blood. Aiming for at least 6-8 glasses of water daily is generally recommended, unless otherwise advised by a doctor.
Modifying physical activity can also help manage symptoms. Strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise might worsen pain or increase the amount of blood in the urine due to the stent’s movement. Patients are often advised to avoid such activities until symptoms improve or the stent is removed.
Certain dietary adjustments may also provide relief for some individuals. Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can potentially lessen urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort. Additionally, maintaining regular urinary habits by urinating frequently helps prevent the bladder from becoming overly full, which can reduce pressure and discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many side effects of a ureteral stent are expected, certain signs and symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. A high fever, especially with chills, indicates a serious urinary tract or kidney infection. This requires urgent evaluation.
Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication should prompt a call to your doctor. Increased pain intensity could signal a complication. Inability to urinate or a significant decrease in urine output may suggest a stent blockage or malfunction, leading to urine backing up into the kidney.
Heavy bleeding in the urine, such as large blood clots or persistently bright red urine, needs medical review. While some blood is normal, excessive bleeding can indicate a more serious issue. Persistent nausea and vomiting, particularly if associated with pain or fever, should also be reported to a healthcare provider. If the stent unexpectedly falls out, patients should contact their doctor or seek emergency care immediately.